Juba Freeman arrives in London after winning his freedom from slavery by fighting for the British in the Revolutionary War. Thrown headfirst into British society, he meets Amelia Alumond, a member of the British Black gentry, and reconnects with other ex-slaves who are struggling to build new lives for themselves as free men. Inspired by historical events, the opera sheds a light on a forgotten corner of history – and challenges current assumptions of what life was like in 18th-century London for a person of color.

In this world premiere by British composer Errollyn Wallen, Pauline joins the production as a member of the ensemble.